Scope Management in building system design is the structured process of defining, documenting, and controlling the work required to deliver integrated architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical systems in alignment with project objectives. Guided by the PMBOK® Guide, scope management ensures that all required functions, performance criteria, and coordination needs are identified, approved, and managed throughout the design lifecycle.

It begins with the development of a Design Scope Statement that outlines discipline-specific and interdisciplinary requirements based on the project brief, user needs, and regulatory standards. The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) further decomposes the design into manageable components and tasks, enabling clear accountability, resource planning, and schedule alignment.

Scope management also includes verifying deliverables at each design phase—concept, schematic, design development, construction documents, and bidding—and implementing change control procedures to address scope modifications. Effective coordination between disciplines is essential to managing design interfaces, avoiding overlaps and gaps, and ensuring that all systems are developed within their approved boundaries.

By maintaining scope clarity and control, design teams can minimize rework, support accurate cost and schedule forecasts, and deliver systems that fully meet functional, aesthetic, and regulatory expectations.